Nissan is founded A foothold in Europe Nissan revival
Post-war revival Growing the market
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3. A foothold in Europe
After successfully expanding into the United States and Australia, Nissan finally tackles the European market.

1962
1969
1980
1984
1988

1966
1973
1983
1986
1962
Nissan begins exporting vehicles to Europe.
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1966
Nissan merges with the Prince motor company. This adds an outstanding engineering staff to the group, as well as the renowned Skyline and Gloria models.
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1969
The legendary 240Z is launched. The 2.4-litre in-line six produces 150ps, giving Porsche performance at less than half the price.
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1973
In the midst of the fuel crisis, Nissan’s Sunny takes first place in fuel economy tests run by the US Environmental Protection Agency and achieves huge popularity in America.
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1980
Nissan acquires an equity interest in Motor Iberica, S.A. in Barcelona, Spain.

Cumulative exports surpass 10 million units.


Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation USA (NMMC) is established in Smyrna, Tennessee.

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1983
Nissan Motor Iberica S.A., Spain, begins production of the Patrol (Safari).

 

After being sold in overseas market as the Datsun brand, Nissan vehicles worldwide are unified under the brand name Nissan.

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1984
Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd. is established in Sunderland.
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1986
The first Bluebirds roll off the line at Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd.
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1988
Nissan European Technical Centre Ltd. is established in the United Kingdom.

 

Nissan Italy is established – the first of a series of distribution companies for Nissan, called National Sales Companies (NSCs).

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